Why Over 200 Boaters Chose Us to Build Their One-of-a-Kind Narrowboat – And Why You Should Too
If you're looking for a truly personalised narrowboat, JD Narrowboats offers fully bespoke builds crafted entirely in-house by master boatbuilders with over 50 years of experience. Unlike others, we don’t outsource a single detail, ensuring every boat meets our uncompromising standards.
We limit build slots each year to ensure quality. Starting your project now guarantees you a place in our production schedule - and gets you one step closer to life on the water, just the way you want to experience it.
Why JD Narrowboats is the Right Choice For Bespoke Build
Attention to Detail
No outsourcing. No shortcuts.
Every stage of your boat’s construction is handled in our dedicated workshop.
We oversee every weld, electrical wire, and wooden join so you can be confident in the quality of every detail.
Experienced craftsmen
Over 50 years of boat building experience
As expert boat builders, JD Narrowboats brings together time-served skill, technical knowledge, and the kind of insight that only comes from building hundreds of boats.
We are experienced and professional.
“We would visit the workshop every few weeks to see the progress of our boat. We are delighted with the result. Thank you!”
“Andy and Darren offered amazing insights and experience in regard to our build. We would highly recommend JD Narrowboats.”
“We sailed away on the 12th April safe in the knowledge that if anything broke then it would be fixed. We also have 12 months warranty on inverters and such”
“Every potential problem we came to Andy and Darren with, they provided a solution. We have every confidence in their approach because they’ve seen it and done it all before!”
Proven Track Record
Over 200 boat projects complete
We’ve created everything from compact cruisers to luxury liveaboards. Each boat is a one-off just like the people who own them. Over 200 new builds which we’re incredibly proud of.
Your Peace of Mind
Every build includes a 12-month full warranty
Every boat comes with a 12 month warranty on our workmanship.
There will also be manufacturer warranties on key systems which can be up to 5 years.
Welcome Aboard: Jd Narrowboats in Motion
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Welcome Aboard: Jd Narrowboats in Motion *
Expert Guidance All The Way
We help you design the right boat for your lifestyle. Whether you’re a full-time liveaboard, weekend explorer, or off-grid commuter, we guide you through layout choices, heating, power systems, and features that fit your goals.
Updates on Your Build Throughout
From first steel to final fit-out, we’ll keep you updated with regular visuals so you can follow every step of your boat’s journey. You are always more than welcome to visit the boatyard and see progress for yourself.
Quality Materials ONLY
British steel and quality materials. We use British steel for our shells which is far superior to the Chinese imported steel and source all materials from quality suppliers. Rest assured that your boat will be of the highest quality.
Smooth Handover
We don’t just hand over the keys. We guide you through every system on your boat so you’re ready to cruise from day one. We will also answer any questions you may have about life on the British waterways.
Easy Cash Flow Payment Stages
Milestone payments that track your build. We structure payments around real progress - not guesswork - so you stay in control at every stage. Pay for your boat as the build progresses.
Helpful Extras, Handled by Experts
Licensing, insurance, moorings - we’re here to help. We’ll point you in the right direction and offer guidance on the practical side of boat ownership. We have been boating for over 40 years so we’ve experienced most things.
Ready to Start Your Narrowboat Journey?
Let’s talk about your dream boat. No pressure. No obligation. Just honest advice from experienced boatbuilders who care.